“He would wish for a full and frank apology to be made to young Mr Worsfold in this case,” said Mr Walker. “He is deeply ashamed of his actions. His first thought was towards Mr Worsfold.

“He’s never sunk as low as this in the past. This is his first foray into such ugly offending. He’s shown a very healthy level of contrition.”

Mr Walker said the implement in Stainthorpe’s hand was not a knife but a bottle opener which he used to open bottles at a drinking spot used by youths.

Stainthorpe’s mother wrote to the court telling of his background and difficulties.

And Judge Tony Briggs said he had some sympathy, but added “the basic point is that is not a lot of comfort to the person who is at the other end of a robbery backed up by that threat.”

Judge Briggs said it was not opportunistic as Stainthorpe had already approached and observed his victim. And he said the defendant was affected by drink but could still ride his bike, talk and make “terrifying” threats.